Purdue police are preparing for 6,500 new incoming students

Purdue police are prepping for freshmen move-in as 6,500 new students will come to campus for orientation while many areas are under construction.(Photo: File/John Terhune/Journal & Courier, File)Buy Photo

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University police have an extra challenge this move-in season.

Along with helping navigate 6,500 students and their families who are coming to campus for new student orientation, police have to assist in guiding them through construction and recently converted two-way roads.

"We know it’s going to be a little more difficult with the construction," Purdue police Capt. Eric Chin said. "We're asking community members and parents and students to allow for a little extra time."

The stretch of State Street from University Street to the Wabash River Bridge is set to reopen Monday, though with some restrictions in place. The area from University Street to McCormick Road, however, will remain closed until Nov. 30.

Police will also be looking out for distracted driving and cycling, he said, so be sure to handle mobile devices responsibly if you're using them to navigate.

If any emergencies arise, there are more than 250 call boxes on campus — they're painted yellow, have a blue light on top and are marked "EMERGENCY" — that will connect callers with the Purdue police department, Chin said.

"If anyone needs any help make sure they're in contact with the police department and also talk to extra officers on staff," he said.